24 April 2025 by Canberra Weekly Magazine

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The hardest biscuit to swallow

by GEORGIA CURRY

About this time of year, golden syrup runs out of stock on supermarket shelves as people rush to bake ANZAC biscuits — but here’s something to give you pause for thought.

An unopened tin of homemade ANZAC biscuits sits in storage at the Australian War Memorial, a gift from a mother to a son that was never opened because Lance Corporal Terence Edward Hendle was mortally wounded in Vietnam the day he received them.

It’s a heart-breaking story but an important one to remember as we get distracted by trivial ‘soft versus crunchy’ debates over ANZAC biscuits. These iconic biscuits — originally called ANZAC tiles or wafers — were a hard, sugar-less substitute for bread.

Diggers had no choice between ‘soft’ or ‘crunchy’, it was just rock-hard biscuits that were long-life rations. There were no sugar-free or gluten-free variations, original ANZAC biscuits were made for survival.

So, this sealed biscuit tin that will never be opened — one of 1.5 million items in the Australian War Memorial collection — is a bittersweet reminder of the cost of war.

Lance Corporal Hendle received the biscuits on the day he was mortally wounded (29 November 1966) and died of his wounds in the early hours of the following morning, while on the operating table.

The biscuits were returned to his mother, who never opened the tin. In the years following, Mrs Hendle moved house 32 times and always made sure that “Terry’s bikkies” were carried on her lap with great care in the car on the way to her new home.

So, the next time you go shopping for desiccated coconut and rolled oats, spare a thought for the sobering story behind the recipe, no matter how unpalatable it is.

Surprisingly, the unopened tin of ANZAC biscuits isn’t the only edible item stored in the Australian War Memorial’s collection — there’s a whole range of hardtack biscuits from the First

World War.

So durable are they that soldiers used them not just for food, but for creative, nonculinary purposes. The texture and hardness of the biscuits meant that diggers could write personal messages on them and send them long distances to family, friends and loved ones.

Diggers also used the biscuits as paint canvases and even as photo frames (pictured), which features wool and bullets to create a picture frame. Another one in the Australian War Memorial’s collection was used as a Christmas card and has a tropical scene painted on it.

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So durable were ANZAC biscuits that soldiers used them for creative, non-culinary purposes such as this photo frame.

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A new chapter

for brain cancer in the ACT

Meet the new local charity transforming brain cancer care — from the hospital, to the lab, to your home.

Our Canberra, Our Community, Our Fight Against Brain Cancer.

Brain cancer is the deadliest cancer in Australian children. It takes a life every five hours. In Canberra, its impact has been especially heavy — families have faced it alone, with specialist care spread thin and little to no coordinated, in-home support.

That’s what the Australian Brain Cancer Foundation (ABCF) is here to change.

The ABCF was founded by local Canberra family Milena and Nick Skepev. Milena — a mother of three, long-time advocate and now CEO — led the creation of ABCF to address a gap that had gone unfilled for too long. She saw the urgent need for a community-led solution

that puts local families, hospitals and researchers first.

“We created ABCF so no Canberra family has to face brain cancer alone,” says Milena. “We’re building better care at every level — in homes, hospitals, and research labs — right here in the ACT.”

A quiet revolution

As Brain Cancer Awareness Month approaches this May, a profound yet quiet transformation is underway in Canberra, driven by the ABCF. This volunteer-run organisation has been rewriting how brain cancer is tackled in Canberra since its launch in September 2024.

For years, the generosity of Canberrans has quietly powered brain cancer support well beyond our

borders. We’ve backed national programs, funded vital research, and stood by families across Australia — because that’s who we are.

But now, it’s time to turn that same generosity inward.

It’s time for Canberra families facing brain cancer to feel that same level of care — in their own city, in their own homes, when they need it most.

“Our vision is bold — Canberra shouldn’t just support brain cancer care; it should set the global standard,” Mile Petrevski, Strategic Advisor (ABCF) says. “We’re harnessing the strength of our community to transform our city into a world-leading hub for brain cancer support, care, and innovation.”

Leading a new model of brain cancer care in the ACT

The ABCF uses a wraparound approach to brain cancer — investing in three critical areas:

• Patient and Family Care

• Local Research

• Medical Equipment

And they’re doing it differently. Thanks to generous principal sponsors — Zapari, Trinity Law, and Maxim Chartered Accountants, who covered startup and operational costs — 100% of public donations go directly to their programs, not overheads.

As the Foundation grows, ABCF is committed to continuing this model — working hard to secure sponsorships that cover overheads, so every public donation goes exactly where it should: to the cause.

Guided by ABCF’s Medical Advisory Committee — a team of Canberra’s leading doctors and specialists — the Foundation is building a complete support system to tackle every stage of the brain cancer journey.

Because this isn’t just about funding programs — it’s about redefining what care looks like, starting right here in the ACT.

The Canberra Brain Cancer Support Team (CBCST)

In March 2025, ABCF launched its flagship initiative — the Canberra Brain Cancer Support Team, the first service of its kind in the ACT region. Delivered on ABCF’s behalf by the Peace of Mind Foundation, the program is led on the ground by Elizabeth Bloom, a dedicated local Brain Cancer Community Navigator. It reflects ABCF’s belief in collaboration over duplication.

“We didn’t reinvent the wheel,” says ABCF Founding Director John Irvine. “After 18 months of consultation, the need for wraparound care in Canberra

was clear.”

The CBCST provides direct, personalised in-home support, tailored to each family’s needs. It became reality thanks to a $585,000 commitment from thirteen generous Founding Partners — the Pantano Family, The Snow Foundation, Canberra Airport, D-Group, Capital Asphalt, CPS Concrete Group, JW Land, Strategic Financial Services ACT, IC Formwork, Keenan Verrar (LJ Hooker Canberra), Jericho Capital, Elevated, and Cappello Group.

“Coordinated, wraparound care in brain cancer has been urgently needed for years,” says neurosurgeon Dr Hari Bandi.

Director and Public Officer. “And when families can stay in Canberra to receive it, it’s not just more convenient — it’s more compassionate.”

These improvements are critical to Canberra’s future: by strengthening hospital infrastructure and supporting advanced clinical care, ABCF aims to attract and retain top medical talent.

Cutting Edge Brain Cancer Research at ANU

Every dollar raised in Canberra, stays in Canberra.

“ABCF’s model is a game-changer — for the first time, we have somewhere to refer patients for real support.”

Investing in hospitals, keeping families home

Through its Medical Equipment Initiative, ABCF is making long-term investments in Canberra’s hospitals — ensuring patients can access the best possible treatment closer to home.

“Better treatment means better outcomes,” says Tegan Elferkh, ABCF

At the heart of ABCF’s research vision is Professor Leonie Quinn and her team at ANU’s Brain Cancer Discovery Group — a world-leading force in personalised brain cancer treatment.

Their breakthrough work uses mini brain organoids — 3D tumour models grown from patient cells — to study how brain cancers behave and how to treat them.

“Our mission is to personalise treatment for every Canberra patient,” says Professor Quinn. “Every tumour studied brings us closer to targeted therapies.”

This cutting-edge science is happening right here in Canberra —

and it’s transforming what’s possible for local families.

Preserving hope: The ACT Brain Cancer Biobank

When seed funding from the ACT Health Innovation Fund ended in early 2025, the future of the ACT Brain Cancer Biobank — led by Professor Quinn — hung in the balance.

ABCF stepped in with an emergency $37,500 donation, ensuring that no samples were lost and research momentum could continue.

“Every sample is a story,” says Milena. “A contribution. A legacy. We owe it to families to protect that.”

Now, ABCF is working to secure the Biobank’s long-term future by finding 50 Founding Partners — individuals, businesses, and philanthropists — to support everything from sample collection and long-term storage to genetic analysis, mini brain development, drug testing and the future of personalised treatment and clinical trials in the ACT.

Go Grey for May: Raising Vital Funds

This May, ABCF is launching its biggest community fundraiser — aiming to raise $100,000+ to support care, hospital upgrades, and research.

Unlike the separate Biobank campaign, which seeks 50 long-term partners, this drive is open to schools, businesses, and individuals — and will run

throughout the year. There’s a way for everyone to get involved:

• Host a Grey Dress-Up Day, morning tea, Golf Day

• Organise a Coin Challenge or Trivia Night

• Become a corporate partner

• Or simply donate online at abcf.org.au

Raise $5,000+ as a school or individual or $10,000+ as a business, and you’ll earn a VIP tour of ANU’s cutting-edge brain cancer research lab.

“Every dollar matters,” says Milena. “It means care for Canberra families today — and real hope for cures developed right here in our city.”

Everyday heroes, extraordinary impact

This movement is already being led by inspirational kids with big hearts:

• Marko Toumo’ua, a Year 6 student, raised $3,500 for ABCF and earned a private lab tour.

• Zara, now 10, started a handmade earring business ZandM CO. at 8. She’s raised over $30,000 for brain cancer research at ANU.

“Zara and Marko remind us that leadership doesn’t have an age limit,” says Professor Quinn.

Join the movement

ABCF is showing what’s possible when a community steps up with care, compassion, and commitment. Canberra isn’t waiting for solutions — it’s building them.

Now, ABCF is inviting you to be part of the movement:

Dutton appears stu ed and welldone Liberal candidate for Bean

After the 2022 election, I said the LNP needed clear points of di erence to win. Why vote for Labor-lite when you can vote for the real thing?

Peter Dutton has been strangely quiet on the things that would have won him the election.

He needs to get right into the culture wars, say the Coalition will not destroy Australia just to appear

pure on the issue of net zero, call out Labor for blatantly lying about the cost of nuclear power, and vow to open more coal and gas mines — not only to boost export revenue but also to ensure greater use of gas to keep the lights on here in Australia.

Hopefully his defence policy will be a good one, and I’d suggest the easiest way to fund an increase in defence spending would be to announce a moratorium on renewable subsidies for a few years. We’re already doing more than virtually any other country to reduce our emissions — and in any case, whatever we do will make diddly-squat di erence to global emissions.

If he doesn’t, it’s congratulations to Albo. Peter Dutton has created a mood for change, but he has yet

to convince the electorate of the need to change. As The Weekend Australian put it: “There were never baseball bats out for Albanese. There was public disappointment with him — people thought he was pretty hopeless. It’s a bit like a work colleague: nice guy, just hopeless, but you’re not going to sack him.

On a local note, it was great to see Liberal candidate for Bean, David Lamerton, acknowledging servicemen and women at a recent meet-thecandidates forum. How anyone could criticise that is beyond me — especially with Anzac Day just around the corner! David was also engaging in the culture wars, and good on him for that. He’s a former serviceman and comes from a long line of exservicemen and women.

He stated that schools should educate, not indoctrinate, and that a woman is a woman (the UK High Court agrees with him on this). He believes women’s sport should be for women — as should women’s toilets — and that puberty blockers should be banned. Like the indomitable Jacinta Price, he also believes the Welcome to Country has been overused to the point where it risks becoming meaningless virtue signalling.

I agree. At the wake for my late wife in October 2022, held at the Polish Club, my eldest daughter Paddy — a ﬁne woman, even if a bit left — began as MC by acknowledging that we were on the lands of the Ngunnawal people. I recall saying out loud, “Oh for f...’s sake, Paddy, not now.” In my view, it wasn’t the time or place, and if anything, it devalues the signiﬁcance of such acknowledgments. So, well done David Lamerton — keep it up!

feature Claire Miles

Claire Miles to fight for Canberra’s voice as independent candidate

With the federal election coming up on Saturday 3 May, Claire Miles has officially lodged her nomination with the Australian Electoral Commission as an Independent candidate for the federal seat of Canberra.

Miles has pledged to deliver strong and independent representation for Canberra, focusing on four key priorities guiding her campaign to ensure the voices of the electorate are heard.

A real voice for Canberra

“Voters in Canberra have made it clear — they want fairer federal funding and real representation,” Miles said.

“For too long, we’ve been taken for granted by the major parties who see this as a safe seat rather than a community with real needs addressed in Parliament.”

Federal budgets consistently see

Canberra receive less funding per capita than other jurisdictions, leading to significant gaps in essential services and infrastructure. Miles has committed to challenging this inequity and push policy that sees Canberra benefit after years of being taken for granted.

“I’ll fight for Canberra’s fair share, including a world-class multi-purpose stadium that will not only provide social benefits, but drive economic growth at a time when our nation faces record debt levels,” she said.

Tackling the cost of living crisis

Miles has highlighted the severe cost of living pressures affecting Canberrans, promising to advocate for meaningful structural reforms rather than temporary relief measures.

“Canberrans are doing it tough. From housing to groceries, power bills and health care – everything is going

up, and the major parties’ responses are falling short,” Miles said.

With Canberra experiencing the highest per capita homelessness rate in Australia, Miles supports reforming planning laws in partnership with the ACT Government to cut red tape for affordable and public housing development.

Fixing our healthcare system

“I’ve heard heartbreaking stories from Canberra families forced to choose between seeing a GP and putting food on the table,” Miles said.

Miles is advocating for structural reform of the health system, including expanding scope of practice for pharmacists, nurses and nurse practitioners to free up GP access; increasing specialist training positions currently capped by medical colleges; and ensuring Medicare funding reflects

actual community needs.

Genuine climate action

“Canberra is the first jurisdiction in Australia to achieve 100 per cent renewable electricity – proving that a clean energy transition delivers both environmental and economic benefits,” Miles said.

“Yet, at the federal level, we’ve seen delay, backtracking and broken commitments on climate action. This election is our chance to demand better.”

“I’m standing to give Canberrans a real choice – a representative who will truly fight for their interests rather than toe a party line,” she said.

Authorised by Claire Miles, Independent, Canberra, ACT.

Bots influencing election discussion on social media

by DOMINIC GIANNINI, AAP

A flood of fake social media profiles inundating political discussion and reaching millions of Australians during an election campaign has sparked warnings of a growing threat.

Almost one in five accounts analysed on X, formerly Twitter, discussing the election were fake and used AI-generated images and emotionally manipulative language, according to disinformation detection company Cyabra.

One account posted more than 500 times and reached about 726,000 users, with the scale and impact of disinformation campaigns underscoring the growing threat to electoral integrity, the company said.

Disinformation and spam posts targeted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton while other bots pushed proLabor narratives to give the impression there’s a groundswell of support, it found.

The primary narrative promoted by the bots was

attacking the Labor Party to discredit Mr Albanese and “undermine his political standing” by amplifying messages about the government being incompetent, economically damaging and too progressive, it found.

“This messaging was deliberately amplified to erode public trust ahead of the election,” Cyabra said in its Disinformation Down Under report.

Public discussion centred around Labor and the coalition was analysed throughout March using AI technology to discover fake activity, which can include the frequency of posting and language and hashtags used by bots.

The accounts coined hashtags including “Labor fail” and “Labor lies” and ridiculed the prime minister with nicknames like “Fweeby Albaneesy”, in reference to receiving free upgrades.

Ridicule and emotionally charged language were used to maximise visibility and provoke engagement with satire and memes employed to further the reach of each post, Cyabra said.

The fake profiles on X attacked both major parties

but with different strategies as the coalition was targeted with pro-Labor posts including with hashtags like “Dutton must go” and “LNP corruption party”.

Fake profiles sought to portray Mr Dutton as out of touch or inept while branding the party as broadly incompetent and corrupt, “creating the illusion of widespread support for the current administration and reinforcing partisan sentiment”, the report found.

Bots even outperformed real users on several occasions, “allowing them to dominate the narrative,” it said.

“The overwhelming presence and influence of these fake accounts point to a deliberate attempt to distort public opinion, drown out authentic voices, and manipulate the political conversation on social media.”

But it was hard to determine who was behind the bots and targeted misinformation campaigns, the company said.

Australian Electoral Commission acting electoral commissioner Jeff Pope has warned of potential impacts to integrity, including misinformation and disinformation campaigns.

There’s also perceived concern about the impact of AI impacting electoral integrity despite actual incidents in 2024 being very low, the acting commissioner said.

Let’s dance Canberra! Australian Dance Week is here

by BERNIE RYAN

From 28 April to 5 May, peak body for dance in the ACT, Ausdance ACT, will be celebrating and promoting all kinds of dance during Australian Dance Week, and is proud to host the largest Dance Week program in Australia.

“If you take out walking, dance is the third most popular recreational activity in Australia and Canberra is no exception,” says Dr Cathy Adamek, Executive Director of Ausdance ACT.

“We have more dance schools and studios per capita than anywhere else in the country,” she added.

Now in its 43rd year, Australian Dance Week is an opportunity to turn the spotlight on Canberra’s local dance scene, with an extraordinary range of events.

Highlights include the Australian Dance Week opening event on 29 April, from 6:30pm at Gorman Arts Centre, which will be officially opened by Minister for the Arts Michael Pettersson MLA.

This event will feature The Stellar Company’s

‘Stars in 3D’, an immersive dance experience commissioned by Ausdance ACT, and featuring the Chameleon Collective with special guests Hilal Dance Australia.

“We are thrilled to be opening Australian Dance Week with Stars in 3D,” says Liz Lea, Director of The Stellar Company & Chameleon Collective.

“This project is an arts science collaboration presented by the Chameleon Collective, Canberra’s inclusive dance company,” Ms Lea added.

Other Ausdance Presents events include:

• Ausdance ACT’s annual networking Morning Tea, 30 April, for teachers and dance studio owners.

• A special dance film workshop for high school and college aged students with Peng Hsiao yin from Dancecology Taiwan, 5 May.

• Free trial and taster dance classes with various local studios, dance artists and arts centres throughout the week.

• Canberra Dance Theatre (CDT) and The Food Co-op Shop & Café ‘s, ‘Spiced Lunch’— a unique

event where dance and delicious food come together.

• ‘Loitering and Leaping in the Library’, a free, fun ZEST: Dance for Wellbeing class at the National Library of Australia, for adults who want to keep their body and brain active and healthy.

Canberrans can also travel the world of exotic music and dance with Folk Dance Canberra at The Little Burley Market or take their little ones to a Blueberries toddler class or try out a commercial hip hop class with Fresh Funk Canberra.

“Our calendar is chockers with opportunities to dance all over the ACT and regions. Young, old, mixed ability, professional, pre-professional and anyone who loves to dance or has always wanted to try,” says Ms Adamek.

Visit ausdanceact.org.au for more information.

Australian Dance Week runs from 28 April to 5 May.

Reset and refresh with a Yin Yoga Retreat

t Healthy Living Yoga we are passionate about self-care to nurture wellbeing and promote a healthy balanced life. We offer yoga classes, workshops, yoga retreats and a range of yoga and wellness products. We are excited to announce our Bali Reset and Refresh Yoga Retreat from 22-28 September 2025. Retreats offer a truly immersive experience, deepening your practice and connecting with like-minded people. Whether you’re looking to improve flexibility, relieve stress, or enhance your overall wellbeing, a Yin Yoga Retreat can offer a powerful and restorative experience.

We may not realise it, but our day-to-day lives demand a lot from us. Deadlines, commitments and constant rushing all create a stress load on our nervous system. Our Yin Yoga Retreat offers a way to slow down, quiet the noise and reconnect, by cultivating

deep relaxation. More than just a physical practice, Yin Yoga encourages mindfulness, inner stillness, and emotional healing.

What is Yin Yoga?

Different from traditional, dynamic yoga styles that focus on high blood flow tissue such as muscles to build heat and generate strength through movement; Yin Yoga is a slow, intentional and meditative practice that targets low blood flow tissue such as joints, tendons, ligaments and the fascia that wraps around the muscles and organs. By holding poses for 3-5 minutes, Yin Yoga helps to gently release the fascia, inviting blood circulation to bring in nutrients, lubricate the joints and improve bone health.

This practice is designed to work with the parasympathetic nervous system, downregulating the nervous system to enable rest and to kick-start the body’s natural healing ability. By releasing the tension in the body and connecting to the breath, you enter a state

of deep relaxation. Joining a Yin Yoga Retreat provides the perfect environment to let go and experience profound stillness, both physically and mentally.

A brief history of Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is based on Taoist principles of yin and yang, mixed with Chinese traditional medicine. Yin Yoga is designed to stimulate the body’s meridians, improving energy flow. We find the point of resistance and slowly play with this edge in a pose by compressing and releasing to promote circulation to flush toxins. Working in harmony with the elements and seasons, we can bring the body back into alignment.

The top 4 benefits of Yin Yoga

1. Enhances flexibility and joint mobility

By holding postures for extended periods, Yin Yoga allows connective tissues to flush toxins and invites beneficial nutrients from the blood. Deep stretching can

also release built-up tension. Regular practice of Yin Yoga can improve flexibility and increase joint mobility, making everyday movements more fluid and effortless.

2. Reduces stress and anxiety

The meditative nature of Yin Yoga encourages mindfulness and deep breathing, helping to calm and regulate the nervous system. Many practitioners find Yin Yoga especially effective for improving sleep, as it helps ease stress and promote deep relaxation. Unlike the active styles where we use the body to get into the pose, in Yin, we use the pose to get into the body.

3. Improves circulation and energy flow

Yin Yoga stimulates the flow of chi or qi (energy) through the body’s meridians and organs, which can enhance circulation and improve overall vitality. Many practitioners experience a notable boost in energy levels after Yin Yoga.

4. Balances the body and mind Yin Yoga achieves balance by complementing more dynamic, yang-style workouts. Whether you’re highly active or live a fast-paced life, Yin Yoga can help counteract muscle tightness and mental fatigue for better sleep and a more calm and present focus during the day.

Are you ready to be the change you want to see in 2025? Visit the website today to book your spot on our upcoming Bali Reset and Refresh Retreat. Escape the winter cold and embrace a happier, healthier version of you. Immerse yourself in nature, enjoy local tours and an unforgettable Bali experience.

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Australian Catholics join world mourning for Pope Francis leader

by WILLIAM TON, AAP

More than five million Australian Catholics are in mourning following the death of Pope Francis, who is being remembered for his closeness to the nation.

The Pope died on Easter Monday, aged 88, after recently battling a serious bout of double pneumonia.

There are 5.1 million people in Australia who identify as Catholic, according to the 2021 Census, equating to about 20 per cent of the total population.

Australia’s only Cardinal Mykola Bychok said Francis was a Pope for the marginalised and those on the periphery.

“He was a man of simple piety who strove to bring the church

closer to people,” the cardinal said in a statement.

“He gave freely of his gifts and had a unique personal approach to all he met.”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that Pope Francis, the first Pope from the Southern Hemisphere, was close to the people of Australia.

“For Australian Catholics, he was a devoted champion and loving father,” Mr Albanese told reporters.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton expressed his condolences to Catholic Australians on the death of the 266th pontiff.

“He lived frugally and simply,’’ Mr Dutton said.

“Above all else, he was driven by Christ’s values of mercy and forgiveness.”

Governor-General Sam Mostyn said the Pope’s visit to our region in September 2024 exemplified his devotion to the global church.

“As millions of Australian Catholics mourn a spiritual guide, father and friend, we can all reflect on His Holiness’ message of peace; of respect for the rights and dignity of every member of our human family; and care for the Earth, our common home,” Ms Mostyn said.

Throughout his 12-year tenure, Pope Francis was lauded for his simplicity, humility, warmth and his concern for the poor and those pushed to the edges.

His papacy centred on themes of social justice, including calling attention to people seeking asylum, refugees and migrants, and the need to care for creation, Australian Catholic University

Pope Francis is being remembered for his interest in Australia and the region.

lecturer Sandie Cornish said.

“He’s been very much a person who values face-to-face, embodied encounter, not talking about these issues in the abstract, but remembering the faces of the people who experience these issues,” she told AAP.

Pope Francis has revitalised Catholic teaching and presided over a “paradigm shift” in his focus on the environment.

In addition to these progressive shifts, the Pope has made structural changes to the Vatican’s leadership by appointing women to key positions and changing rules to allow lay people to head departments.

Photo

Big weekend of sport to commemorate Anzac Day

by LILLIAN ALTMAN

The Anzac Day long weekend in Canberra will be filled with sports clashes across the AFL, NRL and Super Rugby.

In the AFL, the Greater Western Sydney Giants will host the Western Bulldogs at Manuka Oval on Saturday night 26 April.

The Brumbies will take on New Zealand’s Hurricanes on the same evening, while the Canberra Raiders go up against the Dolphins on Sunday 27 April.

The game day activities at the AFL include a curtain raiser match between the Australian Defence Force and NSW Police women’s team. RSL ACT will be at the ground to collect donations. There will

also be a pre-match observance ceremony.

The Raiders Anzac Day guernsey pays homage to the brave servicemen who served on the Kokoda campaign during the Second World War.

The main image on the front is of an anonymous soldier looking out across the deep valleys towards Ioribaiwa on the Kokoda Trail, from a point where the road ends and the descent by foot track commences.

The image of the anonymous soldier was taken by Warrant Officer (later Lieutenant) Thomas (Tom) Fisher in 1942, who was the only military history section photographer to be killed in action during World War II.

The jersey also features an early

map of the Kokoda Trail from the AWM National Collections.

The Anzac spirit will also be on display for the ACT Brumbies, with a spokesman saying the day is important to the club.

“As a Canberra-based club, Anzac Day has always provided a strong resonance and meaning to the ACT Brumbies with a longstanding connection between the club and the sport of rugby union, the Defence Forces and the ADF Academy/Duntroon and the AWM,” the spokesman said.

The Brumbies game day will include several military-themed activities, including a Red Berets Parachute Jump into the stadium, army drone show and virtual reality experience, an army-style

obstacle course for children, fitness challenges, a half-time military dog presentation and an Air Force Roulettes flyover.

A traditional Anzac Day ceremony will also be held, featuring renditions of the national anthems and the playing of the Last Post before kick-off.

The club will also host the ADF rugby finals between the Army and Air Force Men’s and Women’s sides as curtain raisers.

Hudson Young wearing the Canberra Raiders’ 2025 Anzac Day Jersey.

Photo courtesy of Canberra Raiders

‘Thanks Mal’: Young’s quest for NSW recall on track

by JOE GOULD, AAP

When Canberra second-rower Hudson Young returns to the NSW Blues side in the future, you can be sure he will thank Australia coach Mal Meninga.

The on-fire Raiders forward, in line for a State of Origin recall, was dropped after game one of last year’s Origin series after coming off the bench in the 38-10 loss to Queensland.

His good form was recognised by Meninga, who picked him in all three Pacific Cup matches at the end of the year, including the 20-14 final win over Tonga, where Young played secondrow with distinction.

Raiders legend Meninga is a proud Queenslander who dominated the Origin arena for 14 years. He has no love for NSW, but he does have great care for all players and wants the best Kangaroos side possible.

Young scored his third consecutive try-double

in a starring role for the Raiders in their 30-20 win over Gold Coast on Sunday.

He said Meninga’s faith in him had been crucial in his own quest to force new Blues coach Laurie Daley to pick him for this year’s series.

“The amount of confidence I got out of that Australia camp and being around those players, and Mal putting so much belief into me, just made me believe in myself,” Young said.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity that Mal gave me.

“I am really keen (to play for NSW again). It’s where I want to play and I know that I’m good enough to be in that arena. Hopefully Laurie puts faith in me and I’ll repay that.

“We had the (Blues) camp at the start of the year and Laurie just said to go out there and play your best footy for the Raiders, and that’s what I’m trying to do.

“Since you can walk and know what footy is,

you just want to play for the Blues. I’ve had the chance to do that and it just gave me that fight and want to get back in there and represent the state and the people.”

Young has his work cut out to dislodge incumbent NSW back-rowers Angus Crichton and Liam Martin from the side to play the series opener on 28 May, after the Blues won last year’s series.

Young said former Canberra great Daley had done some work with him at the Raiders and reinforced the legacy of the club.

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Hudson Young is hoping his form for Canberra can win him back his NSW jersey. Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP Photos

Bikers ride to Parliament House: Seek urgent changes to bail laws

by BERNIE RYAN

Friday 11 April should have been the day that Molly Ticehurst’s parents, Kate and Tony, and her young son Nate were planning to celebrate her 29th birthday the next day.

Instead, they travelled from their hometown of Forbes, NSW to the lawns of Parliament House in Canberra in honour of Ms Ticehurst, who was found dead in her home in the early hours of 22 April 2024.

The family were joined by over 150 motorcycle riders from across the country, who had convened to honour Ms Ticehurst, and all women and children killed through family and domestic violence.

Their intention was to send a strong message to politicians that Australians want concrete steps taken to address the ongoing killing of women and children.

Ms Ticehurst’s ex-partner, Mr Daniel Billings,

was charged with the murder of the young mother and childcare worker. He will appear again in court in May this year.

The ride to Canberra was organised by Mr Grant Nicholson and the Central West Riders Club in Forbes, which Nicholson founded around six years ago.

“We are here to let the Government know that we need action. We are sick of lip service and talk about things being done”, he said.

“We’re calling for a national approach to bail reforms. So that no one gets bail if they are violent… or a sexually aggressive predator towards women”.

Billings had been freed on bail a fortnight before Ms Ticehurst’s death, on other charges related to Ms Ticehurst.

Ms Ticehurst was the 30th woman killed in 2024, and one of 119 women and 20 children killed since 1 January, 2024, according to journalist Sherele Moody.

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Moody founded and maintains the Red Heart Campaign at australianfemicidwatch.org, which tracks and honours women and children lost to domestic and family violence.

Ms Moody said at the event, that “…60% of the 119 women and 20 children were killed due to domestic and family violence, and we are here for every woman and child, especially those who can no longer be here”.

Barry Merritt, a former White Ribbon Ambassador who also travelled from Forbes, stressed the power of men standing against domestic and family violence.

“It’s outstanding that we are standing up as men, to say, enough is enough”, he said.

At the conclusion of the event, Ms Ticehurst’s family, including her son Nate, laid a flower at the foot of a red heart with her name on it, and next to the named hearts of the other women and children killed since the beginning of last year.

Mr Nicholas and Mr Merritt did not hesitate to emphasise that no family should ever have to do that.

“One woman is killed every week in Australia. Men need to be better. And our government needs to be way better than it is”, they said.

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Hand off Bill!

From our Labor/Teal/Green/Pococky stronghold, it’s disheartening to hear calls for Bill Stefaniak’s sacking because of his mainstream conservative views, particularly on Israel. Eric Hunter’s (CW 17 April) arrogant insult that, if not sacked, “it would be preferable were he to think for himself occasionally”, exemplifies the ugliness of this intolerance. I’d invite all extremists to embrace Liberal Democracy, ease their demands, and challenge their own dogma. Lionel Shriver’s warning, in her novel Mania, applies to us all: When you’re inside a bubble — there is no bubble!

- Peter Robinson, Ainslie

Stefaniak’s false claims

In his letter (CW 17 April) Bill Stefaniak, among numerous exaggerations and distortions, accuses the International Court of Justice and human rights organisations (such as the UN Human Rights Council and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights) of being “at best, hypocritical, as well as notoriously corrupt”.

Mr Stefaniak provides no evidence for these accusations. They are blatantly false, and also imply that the United Nations itself is hypocritical and corrupt. Bill is inferring that he knows and understands world affairs better than all the nations that comprise the UN.

- Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin

Past

their use-by date

Neil Churches (CW 17 April) may as well be living on Mars. Alan Jones hasn’t held a mainstream media show since November 2021, and does Neil disagree with Andrew Bolt’s condemnation of all things Trump at the moment? I suspect not. As for lies and misinformation, maybe check out the taxpayer funded, supposedly neutral ABC and their false accusations of Australia soldier Heston Russell. Or just watch an ABC program and the light treatment anyone on the left gets from their socalled reporters.

He might want to check his own misinformation and lies. Ford Australia announced it was ending its local production in May 2013, under the Rudd Labor Federal government. Also, everyone knows that former Labor Prime Minister Paul Keating ripped the heart out of local manufacturing of motor vehicles when he got rid of tariffs on overseas produced cars, even his own party

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warned him of this disastrous move. Neill maybe you are well past your use-by-date with your rambling false dribble.

- Ian Pilsner, Weston

How not to vote

Bill Stefaniak has recently provided his advice on how to vote. Telling people how to vote without explaining any of the politics or policies is somewhat patronising, so let’s hear about the candidates. I think people can make their own minds up about Labor, Liberals and the Greens, although Bill’s preferencing of Will Roche over Labor in the seat of Canberra is inconsistent with his claim to vote Labor if you can’t vote Liberal. Will Roche is 19, has limited life experience, doesn’t seem to have any work experience, and seems capable only of parroting Liberal party talking points. I don’t think he is qualified, and MP is not a suitable first job. Other parties who Bill

ranks above Labor and the Greens include The HEART Party, Sustainable Australia and Animal Justice.

The HEART party could be more accurately described as the Cooker Candidates, who are libertarians with thinly veiled anti-vax and wellness sentiments. They believe you get sick because of fluoride in the water and eating the wrong foods. Sustainable Australia claims to be politically neutral, which is quite a feat for a political party. They claim their policies are objective, which demonstrates a profound lack of awareness that politics and policy are always value driven. Whilst Animal justice has nothing objectionable about their policies, their political platform is extremely narrow, but if animal rights is your primary concern, then it’s an obvious choice. Hope this helps to inform how you vote.

- Brydon Davidson, Watson

Buying property with super Is it worth withdrawing money from

super to buy property? Yes, it is. By investing early in property, one benefits from purchasing at a lower price than what the purchase price would be further down the track while saving up for a deposit. Buyers will benefit from the security it provides, also an increase in value on the property at an average gain of 6.4 % per annum, the historical property growth rate in Australia, which is well above the current interest rate paid for interest bearing accounts, which is subject to income tax. What it does is give potential home buyers an opportunity to purchase a property, which would otherwise not have been available to them.

Mario Stivala, Belconnen

Context needed

I appreciate Bill Stefaniak giving us the benefit of his conservative experience in recommending his voting preferences for the coming Federal elections (CW 17 April). I prefer, however, to trust to my own

judgment. Just as I trust my long experience in observing history and international affairs over a period of almost 80 years from my early teens. The real problem occurs though when we arrive at a viewpoint based more on prejudices than experience. In the Letters section, Bill slates Ms Browne for stating a potential number of Gazan deaths at around 300,000 compared with the “official” death toll of a mere 45,000. I suggest that Bill goes back and reads the entire paragraph in which Ms Browne’s figure was included. Context is always a good idea, especially when you’re prone to start out from a pre-determined position. Can Bill be confident that, in due course, when all the bodies are recovered, the total deaths, including those resulting from

all the actions directly attributable to Israel’s actions, wont perhaps even exceed the estimates provided by Ms Browne?

Finally, I do wonder why Bill was given letter space normally reserved for us ordinary folk when he has a weekly column in which to state his views. The rest of us have to trust the Weekly’s editor who decides which of us gets a run and who doesn’t. While there’s modicum of modest delight when our names appear, I do feel that one lot of often questionable statements in each edition is quite enough, especially from one who seems to believe that adulating his “old rugby mates” almost every week, gives him an additional level of gravitas.

- Eric Hunter, Cook

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Email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘To the editor’ in the subject field; include your full name, phone number, street address (NFP) and suburb. Keep letters to 250 words maximum. Note, letters may be shortened if space restrictions dictate. Read more letters at canberradaily.com.au

have you heard?

GIVIT donation of the week: Hardware voucher

GIVIT is an ACT Government partner working with an organisation in Canberra that offers transitional housing for women, children and their families who have been sleeping rough, escaping DV or at risk of homelessness. They are assisting a mother and her son who are struggling to make ends meet. This mum and her son had left a violent and abusive relationship and had been living in a flat with her sister. They had also previously lived in “hoarding zones” and toxic environments where they suffered various forms of abuse. This family had been categorised as “at serious risk” in domestic violence safety assessments. They now live in transitional housing but need urgent help with everyday essentials. GIVIT is requesting the donation of hardware vouchers for their home. Any support will be greatly appreciated by this little family. Generous Canberrans can donate hardware vouchers or fund its purchase. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase these items. To help please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’s-needed, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘hardware voucher’ and Suburb: ‘Macgregor ACT 2615’.

Bold Bandanas charity stall

The Bold Bandannas Relay for Life Team is holding a stall at Bunnings in Majura from 9:30am to 4:30pm on Saturday 10 May. We shall be selling our trademark jams, pickles, chutneys, marmalades and lemon butter and of course our sugar-reduced products too. We shall also be offering many handmade items, including crocheted hand towels, knitted and lace coat hangers, children’s dramatic play items, and as winter is approaching beanies, scarves, mittens and knee rugs. For more info, please contact Jan on 6231 0761.

community noticeboard email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field

Red Dove monthly preloved clothing

On Thursday 1 to Saturday 3 May from 9am to 1pm at Tuggeranong Uniting Church 17 Comrie Street, Wanniassa. Lots of great new winter arrivals and an auditorium full of clothing for women, men, kids and shoes, bags, linen, blankets, doonas, curtains, books and jewellery. Snap up a bargain and help keep clothing from landfill. Partnering with SEE CHANGE on the Saturday with a clothing swap-a-thon. Give clothing a second chance and also enjoy coffee and yummy morning tea treats. Many thanks for all the supportive local community donations.

Exercising with chronic conditions

Learn how to move safely and confidently with chronic pain or health conditions at a free interactive workshop hosted by HealthCare Consumers’ Association and EQUIPD Allied Health Community Gym. Held on Thursday 1 May from 10:30am to 12 noon at EQUIPD in Chifley, the session will be led by certified Exercise Physiologist Dylan Grubb. Attendees will explore safe and sustainable ways to incorporate exercise into their lives while managing conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. The workshop includes a Q&A, gym tour, and light refreshments. Register via Humanitix or contact HCCA on 6230 7800.

Free pelvic floor workshops

Women of all ages are invited to a free pelvic floor workshop on Thursday 1 May 2025 from 9:30am to 12pm at the Phillip Community Health Centre. Run by a Canberra Health Services physiotherapist, the session offers valuable education and self-help strategies to prevent or manage continence issues. Topics include bladder and bowel control, prolapse, and concerns before or after gynaecological surgery. Bookings are essential — contact the Community Care Pelvic Health Team at chs. ccptpelvichealth@act.gov.au or call Central Health Intake on 5124 9977.

Canberra Jung Society

The Canberra Jung Society invites you to its next meeting on Friday 2 May for a presentation by Dr Kirstin Robertson-Gillam on Carl Jung’s Perspectives on the Spiritual and Psychological Significance of the Labyrinth. Explore how Jung viewed the labyrinth as a symbol of inner transformation and self-discovery, and how it can be used as a therapeutic tool for integration and insight. The evening begins at 7:30pm at MacKillop House, Lyneham, with music, tea and conversation. The talk starts at 8pm, followed by discussion and supper. Entry is $15 ($10 concession). A guided labyrinth walk will also be held on Saturday 10 May, offering a powerful opportunity for reflection, centering and personal growth. For more info, visit canberrajungsociety.org.au

Support for those affected by alcohol

Not everyone trapped by alcohol is an alcoholic. Are you being affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-Anon offers free support to friends and families of alcoholics. Each week in Canberra there are eight meetings. For more information phone 1300 252 666 or check out the Al-Anon Australia home page: al-anon.org.au

ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)

You can be a powerhouse. But make sure you include breaks and relaxation so that your creativity, motivation and even your ability to problem-solve won’t take a hit. Prevent burnout by planning to give yourself the breaks you need so your mind and body have time to reset.

TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)

Your longing for genuine connection will be answered and will set important events into motion. Kindness and compassion – both those you witness and those you offer –will create a ripple effect. You’ll be deeply touched by the compassion you see around you.

GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)

BRAIN BUSTERS

1 Who served as vice president of the United States under Barack Obama?

2 Which period falls between the Triassic period and the Cretaceous period?

3 What is the official currency of Estonia?

4 Jos Louis is a confection that is most popular in which country?

5 Lady Godiva reportedly rode a horse naked in Coventry during which century?

You understand others not by what they declare but by what they do. But, if actions reveal truth, what are you willing to do to prove yourself to another? The bigger question may be: Should you really have to? This week, watch how actions speak louder than words – yours and theirs.

CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)

You’re a passionate person who loves wholeheartedly. There will be moments when it feels like your wellbeing depends on someone else, but this is just an illusion created by the depth of your emotions. Give it time, let things settle, and get centered again.

LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)

Diversity is a source of inspiration. Seeing the uniqueness in others will not only spark creativity and admiration but will also make you recognize and value your own distinct qualities. By week’s end, you will feel more confident in what sets you apart, and you’ll find new ways to share it, too.

VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)

You’re circling around bigger ideas. Something you dismissed as simple is more complicated and important than you realised. The growing stakes involved will be highlighted. Stay openminded. Be willing to ask others for their perspectives. You’ll grow wiser as you gather more insights.

LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)

People tend to bond more strongly with those they help or feel needed by. It taps into a deeper psychological principle – the “helper’s high” and the satisfaction people get from feeling like they’ve made a difference. Accept help for a sense of value and connection.

SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)

You’ll prioritise something you love even for a short time, and it changes your week. Know that peace doesn’t always come all at once. It’s not about having it all perfectly aligned but about taking small actions to shift toward feeling the way you want to feel –free and at home inside yourself.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)

Every relationship holds a gift. The gifts of love and attentiveness are obvious. The gift of inattentive relationships? As lonely as they may be, they also allow one to exist without being pinned down. You stay, you do the work, you fulfill the role – but you remain, in some way, untouchable.

CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)

Beautiful and powerful desires exist inside you. They all stem from wanting to feel at home –with yourself, your life, your body, your work and the people you share it with. It’s not too much to want peace, space and love in all those areas. How can you create more of that for yourself now?

AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)

Someone tracks you well this week and communicates it, too. Being seen in this way is rare. As for other relationships that don’t have the same click: Even if a person isn’t a perfect witness, you’d rather have a connection that feels alive than be merely regarded for your usefulness.

PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20) Lately, you’re trying to focus on what seems to matter most to you over time, rather than just momentary things. If something is a passing feeling, you don’t need to hold onto it. If it’s something that deeply shapes your experience, keep it. It’s something worth examining or building on.

Win A DOUBLE PASS TO THE SALT PATH –SENIOR’S MORNING TEA PREVIEW

Thursday, 1 May | 10am arrival | 10.30am screening | Complimentary morning tea on arrival. Catch a sneak preview of this inspiring new British drama, starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs. Witness one couple’s incredible 630-mile journey along the South West Coast Path, the longest uninterrupted path in England.

To enter, subscribe to the Canberra Daily newsletter, follow us on Instagram @canberradaily, and email competitions@canberradaily. com.au with “Salt Path” in the subject line, including your name, contact details, and social media handle. Entries close at 9am on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, with winners drawn the same day. One entry per person. Entrants must be 18 or older.

DIFFICULTY RATING

out

What’s on!

SPORT

Anzac weekend footy

26-27 APR

There is plenty of sport on in Canberra over the Anzac weekend, with the GWS Giants, Canberra Raiders and ACT Brumbies all hosting matches in the national capital. The Giants take on the Bulldogs at Manuka Oval on Saturday night, while the Brumbies host the Hurricanes at GIO Stadium at the same time. The Raiders then play the Dolphins at GIO on Sunday afternoon.

Manuka Oval and GIO Stadium 26 and 27 April; ticketek.com.au

Find more listings at canberradaily.com.au

FESTIVAL

Viva Italia in Canberra Festival

2-10 MAY

The Viva Italia in Canberra multiday festival captures “La Passione Italiana” and covers all aspects of Italian culture. The events are diverse and showcase Italian food, wine, music, literature, culture, community, history and motoring, and provide opportunities to enjoy things most associated with Italy.

MUSIC

The Cruel Sea

3 MAY

The Cruel Sea are heading out on the road, and they’re here to let you know they’re not gonna “waste your time.” With a fresh new sound and a whole bunch of new tracks, they’re ready to shine the light on their brand-new album, ‘Straight Into The Sun’.

3-4 MAY

The Victorian Steam Era, the Wild West, and the fantastical style of Punk come together in the Monaro village of Nimmitabel with a time that never was. The festival is free to enter with on-street activities, penny farthings, market stalls, tea duelling live theatre, music and more. SteamPunk costume is a favourite, but attendance in everyday wear is welcome in the Come What May event.

Nimmitabel NSW, 3-4 May; steampunk.in

2-10 May, various locations; vivaitaliaincanberra.com.au

FESTIVAL

Canberra International Music Festival

30 APRIL- 4 MAY

Join Canberra International Music Festival for ﬁve unforgettable days of music, where legendary musicians will grace the stages.

30 April-4 May, various locations; vivaitaliaincanberra.com.au

3 May, Canberra Theatre Centre; canberratheatrecentre.com.au/ show/the-cruel-sea-2025

COMEDY

Sammy J – The Kangaroo E ect

3 MAY

Sammy J returns in a time-bending memoir that bounces through the life of a recovering attention seeker via song, stories and VHS tapes. Saturday 3 May, Canberra Theatre Centre; canberratheatrecentre. com.au/show/sammy-j-2025

OPENINGEXTENDEDHOURS

Nimmitabel’s SteamPunk@Altitude takes over the Monaro village on 3-4 May.

Swing back in time

with the rat pack

Get ready to relive the golden era of swing as the timeless charm and tunes of the Rat Pack come alive in a new tribute show, right here in Canberra. Led by local Musical Director Andrew Kimber, this unforgettable evening features the talent of The Canberra Jazz Orchestra, bringing to life the magic of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.

Held at The Harmonie Club on Saturday 10 May, the show promises a toe-tapping journey through the classics that defined an era — “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head,” “Mr Bojangles” and many more, all

time out

delivered with the style, swagger and sophistication of the original kings of cool.

Additional songs by songbird Ella Fitzgerald breathe fresh energy into the show, capturing the spirit of vintage Vegas while showcasing the top-tier musicianship of The Canberra Jazz Orchestra. With smooth vocals, lush horn sections and irresistible rhythm, don’t miss out on this experience.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the Rat Pack for the first time, this tribute show is a night of nostalgia, laughter and world-class jazz you won’t want to miss.

Now sh wing

Death of a Unicorn (MA15+)

Grab your tickets now and step back in time for an evening of pure entertainment.

For tickets and more information, visit thecjo.au

The

Amateur (M)

Take 4 with Tex Perkins: The Cruel Sea release new music

Australian rock band The Cruel Sea has released new music for the first time in more than two decades.

Straight into the Sun was released on 7 March, marking the band’s first new album in 23 years!

The Cruel Sea will perform at Canberra Theatre Centre’s The Playhouse on 3 May.

Tickets for the Straight into the Sun Canberra show can be purchased at canberratheatrecentre. com.au/show/the-cruel-sea-2025

the brass ring. The usually strong Jenna Ortega is one note, playing an insufferably moody teenager.

to perform it in its entirety, in order.

We will do two sets — play the album in full, then a little intermission, a little toilet break for you to grab a snack and do various other chores you can fit into 20 minutes.

Awkward and introverted CIA cryptographer Charles Heller (Rami Malek) bids his beautiful wife Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan) farewell as she travels to London for business.

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being a simple vigilante.

Using the Prometheus myth of suffering the consequences of stealing fire from the Gods, the movie also includes a blunt satire of the commercialisation of natural substances for the betterment of the one per cent. The Leopold’s are played loud and bold, with elevated acting throughout. The Kintners don’t fare any better. The always affable Paul Rudd is painfully sycophantic in his attempts to win an account, steadily foregoing his morals for his chance at kissing

We’ll come back and do a second set — deep cuts of songs that’s not a rock and roll show. I see us as more of a dance band, a lot of the music is based on groove.

Tell me a bit more about the new music the band is bringing to the Canberra stage. This tour is very specifically an opportunity to play, promote, and present the new album. We’re going

Why is the show a “one-off very special experience”?

The one-joke consequence of mining the slain unicorn is also overplayed. By the time the movie hits its creature-feature stride, the actors’ performances do not settle into the absurdity around them. If anything, they ramp up! Don’t Look Up (2021), a satire about the climate crisis, was well done due to the grounding of a select few characters played by Oscarwinning actors. The only character who grounds proceeds here, serving as an avatar for the audience, is the (relatively) excellent performance from Anthony Carrigan as the Leopold’s long-suffering butler.

parts. We are very fortunate to have him on the tour.

This particular show we’ll probably never do again. We’ll be back to rocking and rolling.

Back at his desk, Charles discovers evidence of CIA Deputy Director Alex Moore’s (Holt McCallany) black operations. Soon, Alex informs Charles his wife has unfortunately been killed in a terrorist attack.

It’s been more than 20 years since the band last released a new album. Why now?

Based on the 1981 novel by Robert Littell and a remake of the 1981 film, the movie is reductive in its protagonist’s vigilante.

It happened because of the anniversary. The promoter said, ‘Are you going to do it?’ and I said ‘Well it’s not as easy as it seems because one of us has died, we haven’t played in 10 years, and we don’t even know where Danny is’.

tour, Danny gave me a CD and said here’s some new tunes — that was his motivation all along.

In the latest version of The Amateur, while Charles’ loss is horrific, it is quite a stretch his first instinct is to blackmail his boss to train him up to gain revenge, instead of other more professional and practical alternatives. Charles goes some way to distance himself from a stone-cold killer in his literal inability to pull the trigger, however his alternative methods border on reckless terrorist activities, instead making it difficult to empathise with him and his choices.

It will just be this particular tour set during this tour. We’re having Mick Harvey guest with us on keyboard and percussion. He played on the new album. He was very helpful in providing interesting keyboard

Verdict: Messy, unrestrained and irritating. First-time director Alex Scharfman, like Prometheus, may have overstretched.

We got back together for that, and at the very first rehearsal I walked into the room and before we even really decided to do the

The Death Wish (1974 and 2018) and Dirty Harry (five films between 1971-1988) franchises played out over the eighties, with modern interpretations becoming more heroic. The Reacher series (which started in 2022) rights wrongs on behalf of civilians and directly saves them, with Batman Begins’ (2005), elderly mentor figure Alfred (Michael Caine) directly stating the cons of

I didn’t listen to that CW for months because I wasn’t ready for it. When I finally did it, it all came funnelling out and by the next February we were popping out a new album.

While Brosnahan has proven her acting chops in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017-2023), her talents are wasted here. Hopefully Brosnahan’s turn in the upcoming Superman (2025) reboot serves her better.

What do you do when you’re not creating or playing music?

Verdict: For intelligent, morally challenging and exciting spy thrillers, revisit the Bourne franchise (20022016) instead.

Raising children, they’re aged between 11 and 34 — 11 and 14-yearold boys and 21, 30 and 34-yearold girls.

- Luke McWilliams, themovieclub.net Viewed at Dendy Cinemas.

Australian rock band The Cruel Sea. Photo: Tom Wilkinson

The Canberra Jazz Orchestra will bring Rat Pack classics to life. Step back in time with swing classics, 10 May at The Harmonie Club.

Now sh wing

Death of a Unicorn (MA15+)

Lawyer Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd) and his teenage daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega) drive to the estate of Elliot’s potentially new boss Odell Leopold (Richard E. Grant), Odell’s wife Belinda (Téa Leoni) and their son Shepard (Will Poulter), to ensure his running of their account. On the way however, Elliot accidentally runs over a young unicorn! Using the Prometheus myth of suffering the consequences of stealing fire from the Gods, the movie also includes a blunt satire of the commercialisation of natural substances for the betterment of the one per cent. The Leopold’s are played loud and bold, with elevated acting throughout. The Kintners don’t fare any better. The always affable Paul Rudd is painfully sycophantic in his attempts to win an account, steadily foregoing his morals for his chance at kissing

the brass ring. The usually strong Jenna Ortega is one note, playing an insufferably moody teenager.

Verdict: Messy, unrestrained and irritating. First-time director Alex Scharfman, like Prometheus, may have overstretched.

The Amateur (M)

Awkward and introverted CIA cryptographer Charles Heller (Rami Malek) bids his beautiful wife Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan) farewell as she travels to London for business.

Based on the 1981 novel by Robert Littell and a remake of the 1981 film, the movie is reductive in its protagonist’s vigilante.

being a simple vigilante. In the latest version of The Amateur, while Charles’ loss is horrific, it is quite a stretch his first instinct is to blackmail his boss to train him up to gain revenge, instead of other more professional and practical alternatives. Charles goes some way to distance himself from a stone-cold killer in his literal inability to pull the trigger, however his alternative methods border on reckless terrorist activities, instead making it difficult to empathise with him and his choices.

Verdict: For intelligent, morally challenging and exciting spy thrillers, revisit the Bourne franchise (20022016) instead.

- Luke McWilliams, themovieclub.net Viewed at Dendy Cinemas.

WIN! German Film Festival double passes

This 30 April to 7 May, the 2025 HSBC German Film Festival, presented by Palace, showcases the best contemporary cinema from Germany and its fellow German-speaking neighbours - Austria and Switzerland. The diverse lineup of twenty films features superb cinema offerings, including six films direct from the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), compelling biopics and documentaries that delve into the lives of Germany’s most remarkable artists, Germany’s biggest box office hits plus exciting Australian premiere screenings from a bold new generation of German filmmakers.

For more information, please visit germanfilmfestival.com.au

Courtesy of Palace Films, we have five double passes to give away.

Noël Coward Director Lachlan Houen

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Booktalk

This week, Jeff Popple reviews three books about Australians at war for ANZAC Day. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

The Tinpot Navy by Anthony Delano Allen & Unwin, $34.99

The Royal Australian Navy was founded in 1911 and was an inadequate mixture of different sized vessels. Sneeringly called a Tinpot Navy, the RAN actually went on to perform well in the First World War, patrolling the Pacific and sheltering Australian troops seizing German colonies in New Guinea. Australian submarines also made a major contribution during the Gallipoli campaign, while the HMAS Swan undertook a largely forgotten mission into Russia during the Revolution. Anthony Delano, who served in the RAN during the final days of World War II, provides a lucid and entertaining account of these missions, and the early days of the RAN. Recommended.

The Secrets of ANZAC Ridge by Patricia Skehan Hachette, $34.99

Patricia Skehan draws on a wide range of archival documents, diaries and general accounts to provide a personal view of life in the ANZAC trenches on the Western Front in 1917 and 1918. Central to Patricia’s account are the diaries of Sydney-sider James Armitage who enlisted on his eighteenth birthday and served in France during some of the worst fighting. His diaries are full of interest, and Patricia skilfully interweaves them with other sources to provide an interesting tapestry of frontline life. She also doggedly tracks down other sources to answer the questions raised by the diaries and reveal secrets long forgotten. Evocative.

Joan Beaumont is one of our leading historians of the Australian experience of war and her latest book, Gull Force, is another meticulously researched and revealing account. In February 1942, 1,150 Australian troops on the remote Indonesian island of Ambon were overrun by a vastly superior Japanese force. After their defeat, over 200 soldiers were massacred by the Japanese and 800 subject to horrific treatment while prisoners of war. Only 302 returned home. In Joan’s compelling account, she tells the full story of the tragedy, and its aftermath, in a vivid and unflinching manner. A great book to read this ANZAC Day. time out

Gull Force by Joan Beaumont NewSouth, $39.99

Dealing with chronic pain

CO N T R IBU

VIVIENNE LEWIS ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA

Living with chronic pain is tough, and as a clinical psychologist, I see how much it can impact people’s lives. Chronic pain is pain that sticks around for three months or more, even after an injury or illness has healed. Unlike short-term pain, like a sprained ankle, chronic pain doesn’t go away, making everything harder than it should be.

When we feel pain, it’s because the brain registers it through our nervous system. In cases of chronic pain, the brain can become oversensitive, constantly sending pain signals, even when there’s no injury. This is why pain can feel constant, even when there’s no obvious cause.

Chronic pain can a ect your sleep, stop

you from moving around and make it harder to do things you used to enjoy. Over time, it can lead to frustration, anxiety and depression. You might worry about whether the pain will get better or if it will get worse. Many people feel stuck, helpless and hopeless. I’ve worked with people who try to cope by overeating, drinking or withdrawing from things they enjoy that might exacerbate the pain, but these habits often make things worse in the long run.

So, how can you manage chronic pain? Here are ﬁve tips to help you cope:

Acknowledge the pain: The ﬁrst step is recognising that the pain is real and it’s a ecting your life. It’s easy to ignore it or push through but accepting that chronic pain a ects both your body and mind is crucial for managing it.

Find healthier ways to cope: Distraction and relaxation are great tools. When you focus on something else, like a hobby or relaxation, it helps take your brain’s attention away from the pain. This works because it gives your brain a break from the constant pain signals, making the

pain feel less intense.

Be kind to yourself: It’s easy to feel frustrated or guilty because you can’t do the things you used to. But practising self-compassion, being kind to yourself instead of critical. Focus on what you can do, rather than what you can’t, and be gentle with yourself. Chronic pain is tough, and being hard on yourself just makes it harder.

Stay active, but gently: Moving your body can help with both pain and mood. Gentle activities like stretching or walking can help release endorphins, which are natural painkillers that your brain produces making you feel better. Always check with your health professional as to what is reasonable for your body.

Build a support network: Chronic pain can feel isolating so having people around who understand can really help. Whether it’s family, friends, or a support group, connecting with others who get what you’re going through makes a big di erence.

Working with professionals like psychologists or pain specialists can give you tools to manage both the physical and emotional sides of chronic pain. Taking the ﬁrst step to get help can be tough, but it’s the most important step. You’re worth it!

Social media ban for kids could harm rather than help

by MAEVE BANNISTER, AAP

A social media ban could push children towards consuming harmful content in secret as experts warn it is not a blanket solution to reduce online risks.

The world will be watching when Australia implements a social media ban for children under 16 years, due to take effect by December 2025.

The laws passed by federal parliament in 2024 will capture platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Reddit and X (formerly Twitter).

Platforms will have to take reasonable steps to prevent under-16s from creating accounts, and face $50 million fines for systemic breaches of the new rules.

But experts warn kids will likely find a way around the ban and could be steered towards unregulated and potentially harmful online content.

In particular, young boys could be at risk of consuming harmful content in secret.

Family and child counsellor Jacintha Field has

asked children directly what they think of the ban.

“Their response is that they’ll just use their parents’ date of birth, kids are really smart and they are extremely tech savvy,” she told AAP.

“They will find a way around it and when you take things away from children, they just want it more.”

Exemptions to the ban will apply for health and education services including YouTube, Messenger Kids, WhatsApp, Kids Helpline and Google Classroom.

Online gaming platforms will also be exempt.

Ms Field said the blanket ban on other platforms could result in children feeling disconnected from each other and lead to them potentially seeking that connection on the dark web.

“Rather than a blanket ban, it should be tested slowly within different age groups or schools to see the ramifications on mental health,” she said.

“Taking it away all together can create isolation and make kids feel like they don’t belong.”

Ms Field warned boys were most at risk of being

pushed down a “rabbit hole” of harmful narratives without oversight.

“If there is a computer in their room we don’t know what they’re watching or what they’re looking at and that can be a problem,” Ms Field said.

Referencing popular Netflix drama Adolescence, about a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a young girl, Ms Field said the show opened a lot of necessary conversations among families.

“Adolescence showed to all of us that it could happen to any one of our kids,” she said.

The show depicts a toxic online culture and largely hidden world of online misogyny and violence.

Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has said the social media ban will protect young people from such content.

However, it’s been under steady attack from social media companies, and human rights groups saying it impinged on the rights of children.

Ms Field said more education was needed for parents and children on the risks of online harm and how to manage social media consumption.

“We want kids to feel seen, heard and valued,” she said.

“There also needs to be a lot more education and sessions within schools to help parents feel supported.”

a in 60 seconds specialist

My top 5 neutral paint colours

MARIA CERNE, INTERIOR DESIGNER AT STUDIO BLACK INTERIORS, STUDIOBLACK.COM.AU

When it comes to choosing paint colours for your home, neutrals are the quiet achievers. They’re timeless, versatile, and provide the perfect foundation for any interior style — whether you’re building, renovating or simply freshening things up. But not all neutrals are created equal. Some feel too stark, others too muddy. Over the years, I’ve found myself coming back to a handful of triedand-true favourites that strike just the right balance.

Dulux Lexicon Quarter

This is my go-to white when I want a crisp, modern look. It has a slight coolness that pairs beautifully with greys, blacks and stone ﬁnishes. I often use Lexicon Quarter on trims, skirting and ceilings for a clean contrast to warmer wall colours.

Dulux Casper White Quarter

Casper White Quarter is a soft, warm white with a hint of grey, making it a great choice for walls in living areas and bedrooms. It has a lovely calming quality and works especially well in homes with timber ﬂooring or warm-toned furniture.

Dulux Feathersoft

True to its name, Feathersoft is gentle and subtle. It sits in that sweet spot between a warm white and a pale greige. I love using this in spaces where you want a bit more depth than a traditional white but still want to keep things light and airy.

Dulux Dieskau

If you’re after a neutral with a bit more body, Dieskau is a beautiful grey with earthy undertones. It’s perfect for feature walls, media rooms or even cabinetry when you want to ground a space without going too dark.

Dulux Grey Pebble Quarter

This soft grey is one of my most reliable allrounders. It has the right amount of warmth making

it incredibly ﬂexible in open-plan homes. It works beautifully with natural materials like timber, linen and stone.

These colours aren’t just background — they inﬂuence how your furniture looks, how natural light feels in the space, and even how relaxed you feel walking through the door. That’s why it’s worth getting them right.

When choosing neutrals, always test them in your space first. Light, orientation and finishes around them will all influence how a colour looks.

Interior design: Studio Black Interiors | Photo: Adam McGrath

It’s more than a home, it’s a community

The Grange retirement village is located in the heart of Deakin, just 300m from the shops and close to medical facilities. Our village offers you independent living in your own private home without the hassle of the building maintenance, and staff onsite 24hours a day for peace of mind in emergencies.

Join the vibrant and welcoming community where you can live life your way. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the private dining room. Take part in the many social activities or interest groups in the village. Keep fit at one of the regular exercise classes, the indoor pool or the many walking tracks nearby including Red Hill. Indulge your passion for culture at the many museums and galleries close by.

This newly renovated 2 bedroom home comes with:

• Modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances including dishwasher

• Large open plan lounge and dining opening onto the balcony

• Large master bedroom and ensuite

• Built in robes

• Internal laundry with dryer

• Reverse cycle air conditioning

• Internal access lift to secure car park

• Staff on-site at all times in case of an emergency

^Note: images are of a similar home

Openforinspection

Open Day

Tues 13 May

10am – 12pm

Our residents love calling Bellerive Village home – and you will too.

Our relaxed, contemporary retirement village makes it easy for you to make the most of every day. Ditch the mower and enjoy the social community, neighbours you know, and your own home without the time-consuming maintenance. We’ll even change the lightbulbs.

For your day-to-day needs, Bellerive’s conveniently located close to the Canberra Hospital and the heart of Woden, home to Westfield, the bus interchange and many of Canberra’s premier clubs.

This modern homes includes:

• Generous open plan living space opening onto balcony

• Modern kitchen with granite benchtops, user friendly appliances and dishwasher

• Large master bedroom with plenty of built-in storage and accessible ensuite

• Reverse cycle air-conditioning and heating for year-round comfort

• Plenty of storage

• Internal access to secure car space

• Second car space available^

• Smart metering and community solar power

• Emergency buttons connected to on site staff 24 hours a day

Note: Images are of a similar apartment

^ Costs apply

At Marigal Gardens, you’re not just moving into a home without the time-consuming maintenance where we’ll even change the lightbulbs —you’re joining a welcoming community where every day is a new opportunity.

Enjoy exclusive facilities like Bennet Lodge and the new Wellness Centre with an indoor pool and gym. With a full calendar of activities, social events, and interest groups, there’s always something to enjoy with friends and neighbours.

Experience the ideal balance of privacy and connection, close to local shops, parks, and medical facilities.

$720,000

This brand-new modern low maintenance home includes:

• A spacious open-plan living, and dining area

• A contemporary kitchen with ample storage and user-friendly appliances

• Master bedroom and private ensuite

• Accessible main bathroom

• Double-glazed windows

• Year-round heating and cooling

• Internal access to secure parking and

storage cage with power

• An internal laundry

• 24 hour onsite help in case of an emergency

• Close to public transport

Trades & Services Guide

LOCAL TILING ACT

Corelle Porto no dinnerware set

Elevate your dining experience with Corelle Portoﬁno Dinnerware! Inspired by the seaside towns of Italy, the Portoﬁno Dinnerware Set brings the beauty of hand-painted tiles to your table. In classic blue tones, these intricate patterns create a charming, Mediterraneaninspired atmosphere for both indoor and outdoor gatherings, making every meal unforgettable. For dinnerware like no other, it must be Corelle!

CW is giving away two Corelle Portoﬁno 12-piece dinnerware sets valued at $159 each.

ENTER TO WIN!

To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberradaily.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 2 May 2025 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.